Truly International. Proudly Kenyan. Distinctively Durham.
When Durham International School Nairobi opened its doors in January 2021, the world was still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting a new school in such uncertain times was no small undertaking, but it welcomed its first 30 students with a clear vision for the future.
Today, the School is home to approximately 700 students representing 56 nationalities, with enrolment continuing to grow. In less than six years, Durham has established itself as a recognised presence in Nairobi's international education landscape.
As the first British branch school in East Africa, Durham draws on more than 600 years of heritage from Durham School in England, founded in 1414. Rather than simply recreating a British school overseas, it has developed its own identity - proudly Kenyan, forward-thinking in its approach and committed to academic excellence, strong values and a genuinely holistic education.
In September 2025, the School opened its purpose-built Rosslyn campus, constructed in just seven months. Sustainability was central to its design. The Rosslyn campus achieved EDGE Advanced certification, making it the first school in Kenya and the wider region to meet this internationally recognised standard for sustainable buildings.
The campus has recently won two 2026-2027 African Property Awards - Best Public Service Architecture and Best Public Service Development. The awards reflect the ambition behind the Rosslyn development and its focus on creating a learning environment designed around the needs of students.
Durham became the first school from Africa to be named a finalist in the British International School of the Year category at the UK's Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2026, an annual programme celebrating excellence and innovation across the independent school sector.
David Moncrieff, Vice Chair of the Independent Schools of the Year Awards, recognised Durham's contribution to international education:
“Durham International School represents an exciting addition to the international school sector in East Africa. To be the first finalist from Africa is a tremendous achievement and recognition of the school's growing contribution to international education. We are watching its growth with interest!”
Yet the School's story is about far more than buildings and awards.
A COBIS-accredited member school, Durham follows the English National Curriculum, combining academic rigour with teaching that encourages curiosity, independent thinking and a willingness to embrace challenges. High expectations are matched by personal support, ensuring that students are both encouraged and stretched academically.
Durham International School has been shortlisted for the prestigious International School of the Year category at the Tes Awards for International Schools 2026, placing it among a select group of schools recognised for their contribution to education.
The School's MARK values - Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility and Kindness - guide everyday life, shaping how students interact and contribute to their community. A broad programme of sport, music, creative arts and outdoor education provides opportunities to develop talents, explore interests and learn through experience, building Confidence for Life.
Kenya itself offers a wealth of opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. During Durham's Activities Week, students explored destinations including Ol Pejeta, Sagana and Nairobi National Park, building independence, teamwork and an appreciation of Kenya's natural heritage. Within the School's diverse community, students form friendships across nationalities, exchange perspectives and gain a broader understanding of the world.
Reflecting on Durham Kenya's journey, Dr Michael Alderson, Principal of Durham School UK, stated:
“What Durham Kenya has achieved in such a short time is remarkable. It has brought the best of our traditions to life with fresh energy, while developing an identity that reflects the aspirations of its students and the community it serves. We are immensely proud to see our sister school forging its own path and building a legacy of its own.”
Durham International School has warmly welcomed the interest and support of the recently appointed British High Commissioner to Kenya, H.E. Matt Baugh OBE. Having visited Durham School in the UK ahead of his move to Nairobi, he has since visited Durham's Rosslyn campus twice. The School is also proud to partner with the British High Commission in Nairobi for the upcoming King's Birthday Celebration.
Commenting on the partnership, the High Commissioner said:
“In a competitive world, trusted providers of the highest standards of education matter. I’m delighted that Durham International School has chosen to be a Platinum Lead Partner of the British High Commission in Nairobi for the King's Birthday Celebration, reflecting the longstanding educational and cultural connections between Kenya and the United Kingdom.”
Looking ahead, the School continues to invest in its teachers, facilities and educational offering, with a focus on maintaining teaching quality and personal attention as enrolment grows.
For a school that has already achieved so many firsts, Durham is only just getting started.
Families are warmly invited to Durham International School's Open Day on Saturday 21 November, from 9am to 1pm, to explore the campus, meet the teachers and experience the Durham Difference first-hand.
